Back to School, Still Coastin’
Jessica Taylor • August 10, 2026
School bells may be ringing, but there’s plenty of summer left on the Gulf Coast!
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (GSN) — It’s that time of year when backpacks replace beach bags and school bells begin chiming across the Alabama Gulf Coast–but don’t be so quick to close the book on summer just yet! This week offers a little bit of everything, starting with a warm welcome to the new school year and Gulf Shores High School’s exciting new chapter. From there, we’re diving into turtle talks, paddling and painting our way through Wolf Bay, sampling some delicious treats in Foley, connecting with some powerhouse women in Perdido Key, cooling off at Lillian’s splashiest summer bash, and wrapping up the week with a lively Sunday at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Consider this your coastal syllabus for the week: a little learning, a little connecting, a whole lot of exploring–and plenty of fun still waiting outside the classroom.
Monday, August 10th-
School bells are starting to chime all across the Alabama Gulf Coast, and this week, Gulf Shores city schools are celebrating the start of their new school year with a bang! They’re kicking off with their impressive new facility—Gulf Shores High School. Everyone’s warmly invited to join the exciting ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a wonderful beginning for the 2026/27 school year for students, teachers, and families alike. Let the celebration continue with lively festivities throughout the evening. You can enjoy live music options around Gulf Shores like Tracy Tucker at Tacky Jacks from 6- 9 PM, where you can relax and watch the sunset by the beautiful canal waterside, or head to the Gulf to catch The Homies on stage at 6 PM at the Hangout. While school supply shelves may be empty, the fun and entertainment books are still quite full, showcasing that there’s plenty to still enjoy along the coast this August!
Tuesday, August 11th-
Tuesdays are for turtles in August this year. Join others at 2 PM for Turtle Talk in the lobby, located at the lodge in Gulf State Park, to learn all about Alabama sea turtles — who happen to nest on our beach from May through August, with hatchlings stretching well into October. Many people only know about the beauty of these ancient creatures, but there are fascinating facts that help us protect them. If you’d like to learn more or discover how you can help, meet at the park's lobby for a short 15-minute chat about sea turtles and how you can share our beautiful beach with them. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful walk along the shores, where some of these turtles have come ashore to nest. This is how we coexist with our beach friends and leave only footprints.
Turtle Talk @ Gulf State Park Lodge Lobby- OB/GS
Wednesday, August 12th-
Are you ready for an exciting outdoor adventure that sparks your creativity and love of learning? This unique event is perfect for you! Join fellow enthusiasts for an unforgettable back bay excursion for only $55 per person. Meet-up is at the Wind and Water Learning Center in Orange Beach, where you’ll set out on a scenic kayak trip across the stunning Wolf Bay waters. Your expert guide will teach you advanced paddling techniques, helping you become more efficient on the water while you enjoy the journey. But the fun doesn't stop there—once afloat, you'll dive into a hands-on watercolor workshop, creating your own beautiful artwork to take home. Imagine paddling through serene waters, mastering new skills, and expressing your artistic side—all in one incredible adventure. Don’t miss out on this two-in-one experience that combines exploration and creativity in a fun-filled, memorable way.
Paddle and Paint Kayak Excursions-OB
Thursday, August 13th-
Stop by Wolf Bay and take a well-deserved break from the kitchen! Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Wolf Bay is the ultimate family-friendly restaurant that's been delighting the community since 1973. If you're in Foley shopping the outlets or downtown shops on your way home, swing by their convenient location on County Road 20. There, you’ll discover incredible food and a charming shopping boutique featuring unique gifts. Indulge in everything from mouthwatering seafood and juicy steaks to homemade dishes crafted by passionate chefs. Savor favorites like bang bang shrimp, fried green tomatoes, steak salad, captain's platter with a little bit of everything, catfish, scallops, chicken, and more. With so many delicious options, Wolf Bay is the place to satisfy every craving! Open daily from 11 AM- 10 PM.
Friday, August 14th-
Attention all seasoned locals, newcomers, and female leaders-Perdido Key has a special event just for you! Spring and fall along the coast are prime times for business development and leadership networking. Join in as dynamic women come together to share insights, forge powerful connections, and contribute to a thriving community. This exclusive event, called "Women Mean Business: Making Waves in Perdido Key," will be held at the Grand Lagoon Yacht Club. It’s designed to empower women to find the right partners, discuss key leadership topics, and build lasting relationships that foster the next generation of community leaders. Join like-minded women and entrepreneurs this Friday, August 14, from 11 AM to 1 PM. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this inspiring gathering. Afterward, be sure to stop by Emporium @ C at their Perdido Key location and snag some incentive gifts, personal gifts, or whatever you like from this one-of-a-kind exclusive Coastal Gifts and More store.
Saturday, August 15th-
Splish splash into the hottest little corner of the year – it strangely hits after summer and segues into a time when most parts of the world welcome autumn. That’s why we keep going along the coast with cool downs, good times, and plenty of ways to enjoy ourselves while beating the heat! How fitting for an event like Splash Fest in Lillian to be helped and partially hosted by the Fire Department. Jump right in with the community for this family-friendly event where kids and adults can play in the Fire Department’s hoses, the Park’s (another sponsor) foam pit, and last but not least, water slides! That's not all — folks can enjoy a good laugh at the dunk tank, plenty of games for the children, giant bubbles, and even a little puddle patch for the little ones in the group. Point Broadband will be providing hot dogs to keep the crowd fueled and full. If you can't beat the heat, why not splash around in it this Saturday from noon to 3 PM.
Sunday, August 16th-
Spend a heartfelt Sunday afternoon at The Zoo, where the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo welcomes visitors from 9 AM to 4 PM. Here, you can leisurely walk through and observe animals of all kinds, enjoy various exhibits, and participate in daily keeper talks, animal chats, and hands-on encounters that foster a deeper connection with the creatures through the zoo’s ‘animal encounters’. The gift shop offers a wide selection of zoo merchandise and plush animals, perfect for reminding you of this special day. As a nonprofit organization, every visit helps support the dedicated keepers and the animals they care for, ensuring they can continue to thrive and bring joy to visitors like you. When you need a break, the on-site restaurant provides a cozy spot to relax and enjoy a snack before returning for more exotic animal adventures, creating a memorable and meaningful experience for everyone.
Until next week… Keep your calendar full, your swimsuits handy, and your coastal spirit in session!
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